PULLMAN, Wash. – The 93rd meeting between the Washington State Cougars and the Idaho Vandals took place Saturday, bringing fans together in a celebration of tradition and community.
Fans from both sides were tailgating together, emphasizing the camaraderie rather than rivalry. The game, rooted in a rich history, is a major event for the neighboring communities separated by just eight miles.
Paula Nelson, a WSU alumnus from the class of 1978, shared her perspective on the friendly rivalry.
“It reminds me a little bit of Oregon State–Wazzu, where you feel bad if you win because they’re nice. We’re, you know, both from a small town, smaller school,” Nelson said.
For some attendees, the game is about family connections, with roots on both sides. Angie Swanson, a WSU alumnus from the class of 1999, expressed her excitement.
“I am a Cougar alumni from ’99 — whoop! And then we are Vandals now because our son is playing on the football team. His name is Trenton Swanson, and he’s number 82. This is his first time on the field today,” Swanson said.
Former players also cherish the event, reminiscing about the past while enjoying the present atmosphere. Greg Kittrell, a former right tackle and Vandal class of 1977, stated, “I’ve followed the Vandals forever, and of course, being a player there, really appreciate the coaching and the university, because they’ve really come around the past few years.”
On Saturday night, fans agreed that regardless of the game’s outcome, it remains a celebration of the Palouse.
